If you will have completed at least 4 years of Russian (or the equivalent), are interested in the graduate program, but aren't sure whether you will meet the proficiency requirements, you may go ahead and apply. If the Director decides that you are not ready for graduate work in Russian, we can switch your application to the 8-week program.

FAQ: Is funding available for graduate students?

Yes. Graduate applicants may apply for both need-based aid and special scholarships, such as the Kathryn Davis Fellowship for Peace. Aid for certain programs, such as the academic year in Russia, runs out quickly, so apply as early as you can.

FAQ: What is the housing like?

Graduate students, 8-week students, faculty, and staff live in the dormitories of Middlebury College and take meals together in the dining hall. Residency on campus is required, as a condition of creating a high-quality immersion experience for all. Unfortunately, the Language Schools are not able to offer family housing for students with a partner/spouse or children.

Jason Merrill

Director

Professor of Russian, Michigan State UniversityPh.D., University of Kansas

I graduated from Middlebury College in 1990 and received my Ph.D. in Russian Literature from the University of Kansas in 1997. I am currently Professor of Russian at Michigan State University, after previous stops at Dartmouth College and Drew University. Prior to becoming Director, I taught at the School of Russian for five summers: in 2001 and 2002 I was the lead teacher for Level Two, and in 2007-2009 I led Level Four. This will be my seventh year as Director of the School of Russian; even after all these years I love being involved with the School of Russian because I can associate with the best teachers, students, and guests in our profession.

Courses

Course List:

Courses offered in the past four years. ▲indicates offered in the current term▹indicates offered in the upcoming term[s]

RUSS 6888 - Independent Study

This course consists of a thesis written in Russian, for which an advisor will be assigned, and is a requirement for MA candidates. The course can only be taken for the completion of the master’s thesis and may be taken only once.